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Switzerland Weighs Scrapping Patriot Purchase After U.S. Delays

Bern is keeping payments on hold until Washington sets firm delivery dates.

U.S. Patriot missile defense systems at a U.S army base in Pyeongtaek, South Korea, March 10, 2026. REUTERS/Kim Hong-Ji/File Photo
Switzerland had ordered five Patriot systems in 2022

Overview

  • Defence Minister Martin Pfister said cancellation of the U.S.-made Patriot purchase remains an option because deliveries have no firm date.
  • The defence ministry said it will keep Patriot payments frozen until the United States provides fixed delivery and billing schedules.
  • Swiss officials disclosed that the United States drew from a pooled fund tied to Switzerland's F-35 order within the Foreign Military Sales system, triggering concern about the fund's cash.
  • The ministry warned that a drop in that fund's liquidity could force Switzerland to halt other U.S. arms projects, not only Patriot.
  • Washington told Bern it will share next steps and timelines in the coming weeks, and officials plan to submit a recommendation by the end of June.